In This Article
- NexPhone runs native Android 16 as well as Debian Linux and Windows 11, launching in Q3 2026 for $549
- Uses Qualcomm QCM6490 chip, 64-bit octa-core CPU, and Qualcomm Adreno 643 GPU, and offers support until 2036
- Can be connected to monitor via NexDock for a full desktop PC experience
- Military-grade rugged design with IP68, IP69K, and MIL-SPEC protection offering you MIL-STD-810H durability
Most brands struggle to make a single operating system work perfectly across smartphone devices. Nex Computer looked at that approach and said, “What if we just… tripled the struggle?”
So, they introduced the NexPhone. It runs Android 16, Linux (Debian), and Windows 11. All works natively on the same phone. Not in a virtual machine. Not through emulation. Natively. And you will be able to effortlessly switch between them like you open apps on your phone.
Let’s Talk About The Hardware
The NexPhone packs a 6.58-inch 120Hz LCD, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage (expandable via microSD up to 512GB), a 64MP wide-angle rear camera, a 13MP ultrawide, a 10MP front camera, and a 5,000mAh battery with wireless charging.
On paper? That is a solid mid-range spec phone. Nothing bad in there, and it packs a decent value for $549.
Then, when you look deeper into the processor powering the phone, i.e., Qualcomm QCM6490. This chip was originally designed for IoT devices like refrigerators. Though if you remember, back in 2023, the same chip was used in Fairphone 5. It was underpowered and felt sluggish.
A Phone Powered by A Chip Designed for a Refrigerator
Yes, I am wondering the same. Why would anyone voluntarily pick a chip designed for internet-connected refrigerators to power a triple-OS smartphone?
The only answer I could come across is that Qualcomm guarantees support for the QCM6490 until 2036, which is really great for the purpose this phone is designed for. On the other hand, most flagship devices receive 5 years of software support. This thing gets eleven years!
In a world where phones become useless bricks the moment companies stop updating them, Nex just guaranteed this device will receive security patches when your kids are in high school. Isn’t that how PCs are intended to be?
The only trade-off is performance.
Bold move, I must say. Let’s see how well it performs in the real-world environment.
Three Operating Systems Packed Into One Phone
Let’s look into the operating systems, their workings, and their UIs. The phone will run Nex OS, based on Android 16, which will be the main OS. Linux (Debian) can be launched through a built-in app. While booting into Microsoft Windows 11 will require a reboot, it features a custom tile-based UI.
NexPhone is dockable via NexDock. Once docked and connected to the mouse and keyboard, all three operating systems offer full desktop environments. This includes Android Desktop Mode, Debian with a complete desktop interface, and Windows 11 with its traditional desktop UI.
Android and Linux share access to the same files, while Windows will be on a separate partition.
The Bigger Picture
Samsung DeX exists, but it locks you into Android’s world. Microsoft gave up on Windows Phone. Apple will never let macOS run on an iPhone. Google has already ended desktop Chrome OS on tablets.
So, there is an untapped market for these devices. The technology exists, especially for people genuinely looking to experience the true multi-OS flexibility without carrying multiple devices.
The processor choice is questionable, and the battery life under triple-OS load could be worrying for many. However, sometimes the most interesting products aren’t the most polished; they’re the ones bold enough to attempt what everyone else abandoned.
If the NexPhone actually ships and doesn’t immediately collapse under the weight of its own ambition, then surely, it’ll rewrite the rules for what smartphones are actually capable of.
If it fails? Well, at least somebody tried.
The NexPhone is available now with a $199 refundable reservation deposit, with Q3 2026 shipping planned. Final balance of $350 due before shipment. Total price: $549.
